nori

Paper-thin sheets of dried seaweed that can range in color from dark green to dark purple to black. They have a sweet ocean taste and are popular at Japanese meals. Nori is generally used for wrapping sushi and rice balls. When finely cut it serves as a seasoning or garnish. It can be purchased toasted (labeled yakinori); if purchased plain, it is usually lightly toasted before being used. Nori that has been brushed with soy sauce is called ajijsuke-nori. Japanese markets and some supermarkets carry nori either in plastic packaging or canned. All nori is very rich in protein, vitamins, calcium, iron and other minerals.